Attorneys With Deep Proficiency in Franchise, Alcoholic Beverage, and Cannabis Industry Law
For more than 30 years, the lawyers from Garner, Ginsburg & Johnsen, P.A. have helped franchisees and small businesses take control of their companies. Our sought-after, Minnesota-based attorneys understand that you are fighting for your livelihood and you want representation with deep experience in franchise, alcoholic beverage, and cannabis industry law.
From calling out franchisors on fraud and misrepresentation to standing up for franchisees suffering from a territory takeover, we work to help our clients establish and grow successful businesses. And for small businesses and startups joining the state’s emerging cannabis industry, our attorneys work tirelessly to keep up with ever-changing laws to ensure client success and compliance with both local and state regulations.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you with your unique situation, contact our attorneys in Minnesota to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.
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Expertise That Sets Us Apart
Franchise Disclosure and Protection Laws in Minnesota
Minnesota is one of the leading states in protecting franchisees’ rights. It requires franchisors to register their Franchise Disclosure Documents with the state before they can sell to franchisees; it provides franchisees with rights to sue their franchisors for fraud or misleading conduct in connection with the sale of the franchise; and it protects franchisees against termination or nonrenewal without good cause.
Minnesota also has a host of pro-franchisee regulations that protect franchisees against additional overreaching by franchisors. One provision, for example, prohibits a franchisor from restricting franchisees’ ability to freely associate with one another. The State of Minnesota also has a website where you can research the franchise filings of franchisors.
Minnesota Law Working Against Franchisees
As progressive as Minnesota laws are in protecting franchisees, there are instances where laws fall short. Sometimes Minnesota franchisees seek out our franchise law services because their franchisor declares bankruptcy. Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases are concerning because franchise agreements rarely include language that protects franchisees in this scenario.
When franchisors file for bankruptcy, the court automatically imposes a stay of all actions against the franchisor which prevents franchisees from taking legal action against them. Franchisees, however, are still obligated to honor their agreements. This means a Minnesota franchisee must continue operations to the best of their ability while their franchisor ceases support, marketing, and other services. With an experienced team of franchise lawyers, you can stay informed during the proceedings and get counsel that will represent and protect your legal interests.
Garner, Ginsburg & Johnsen, P.A. has had a hand in making and keeping Minnesota’s franchise laws as friendly to franchisees as they can be, and regularly appears in Minnesota courts to fight for franchisee rights. If you are a Minnesota franchisee or a franchisee of a Minnesota franchisor, contact our small business lawyers to maximize your protection!
Cannabis Industry Lawyer Services
Starting any kind of business is complex, however Minnesota cannabis law compliance takes it to a new level. There’s so much to learn and manage, making it crucial to have experienced cannabis attorneys who are used to working with small businesses.
Garner, Ginsburg & Johnsen, P.A. has a wide range of cannabis law expertise expertise, providing small businesses services which include:
- Drafting of contracts
- Risk mitigation and regulatory compliance
- Protection of intellectual property
- Trademark matters
- Corporation formation and organization
- Corporate disputes
- Dispute resolution and litigation
- Evolving laws, regulations, and case precedents
- Supply partner support
- City and state licensing and permitting
Let’s take your great ideas, and refine them so you have a smart business plan that’s grounded in legal compliance. Contact us for a consultation!
Testimonial
Elliot Ginsburg has been representing my edibles business in Minnesota since it became legal to sell low-dose hemp edibles. He’s been wonderful to work with and I would highly recommend him to other cannabis businesses. He is quick to respond and will email cannabis law updates that he finds are pertinent to my business.
-Ranelle Kirchner
Testimonial
I had the experience of working with Elliot twice over the past ten years in difficult and contentious situations against a formidable entity. Beyond his great knowledge of franchise law, his thoroughness and attention to detail, and his professionalism, what really stood out and impressed me most was Elliot’s legal advocacy that is second to none. I always felt I was in good hands and I can’t give a higher recommendation!
-Eric Kim
Testimonial
Throughout my time overseeing a PE firm for the past 15 years, I’ve interacted with my fair share of lawyers. While most are decent, it’s rare to encounter those who are truly outstanding. I’m pleased to report that Elliot, Kirsten, and Erin fall into the latter category. My team found ourselves in a particularly complex situation, and Elliot and his team delivered the very best possible outcome for us. They exhibited professionalism, conciseness, and exceptional ease to collaborate with. They swiftly gathered all pertinent information surrounding our issue, assumed control, steering the situation while consistently seeking our input and guidance. If you have any issue with franchise law, you should call these guys. I’m so glad I did.
-Drew James
Testimonial
I cannot say enough good things about Elliot Ginsburg of Garner, Ginsburg & Johnsen, P.A. I retained Mr. Ginsburg in connection with a franchisee matter. Elliot is professional, thoughtful, intelligent, clever, fair and reasonable. His legal work is thorough and well researched and he takes extra precautions to verify factual information. He has the admirable ability of being calm and professional yet firm, even when met with less than professional behavior from opposing counsel. I spoke to many attorneys before deciding to go with Elliot and I know that I made the right decision. I would not hesitate to recommend Elliot (or the firm in general) to anyone needing the assistance of a franchisee attorney.
-Alyson Domoto
Testimonial
I was represented by Erin Johnsen dealing with a successful franchise closure and a lease termination. Erin was very responsive and thorough with both issues. Erin and I reviewed courses of action before moving forward. She listened and gave advice related to risk and exposure of the options we were reviewing. I alway felt that Erin had my best interest in mind when giving me advice on how to proceed. I wouldn’t hesitate hiring Erin again if required. I would recommend Erin as a competent and capable attorney.
-Steven Pierce
Testimonial
I had the pleasure of working with Elliot Ginsburg. He helped me renegotiate and revise a 10-year lease for my coffee shop. I was impressed with how thoroughly and promptly he addressed all of my concerns. He has amazing attention to detail and gave very thoughtful responses to my questions. He even came out to my shop multiple times to get a better understanding of my leasing situation. I would certainly work with him again or recommend him to anyone.
-Caitlin Shrestha
Testimonial
Erin Conway Johnsen helped guide us through a challenging situation with a newer franchise. She was patient with us, listened to our issues and was able to provide work that leveled the playing field with the franchisor. I would HIGHLY suggest her and her team for any challenging franchise situation.
-Paul Rakovich
Testimonial
We consulted with Elliot Ginsburg to help us review and interpret the franchise documents and agreements before investing. He was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable in content and process as well as the legal implications of “common language.” His expertise was critical as we negotiated and maneuvered the process. I am so glad we found Elliot and the firm.
-Mark Mendel
Testimonial
Elliot Ginsburg (Garner & Ginsburg, P.A.) was a beacon of hope to my business/family at a time when our options appeared limited, and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed to border on the unlikely. He fought diligently and successfully for my rights as a small business-/Franchise-owner and was unwavering in his pursuit of a fair outcome.
Not only was Elliot able to defend my business from unjust accusations, but his calm and empathetic demeanor also offered emotional succor to myself and my situation. My family and I are eternally grateful for his service, and I hereby recommend Elliot Ginsburg (Garner & Ginsburg, P.A.) without reservation.
-Brandon Gruskiewicz